The Champions League returns with Aston Villa facing a difficult start to their campaign, opening away to Belgian side Club Brugge. Villa qualified for Europe's top competition on two fronts after a strong end to last season, but have since lost six players from the side that won the Europa League final against Freiburg, leaving manager Unai Emery to rebuild much of the team. This transition has coincided with a poor domestic run, meaning the trip to Bruges arrives at a testing time for the club.

Villa have taken just one point from their opening three Premier League fixtures and have yet to score a goal this season, contributing to a subdued mood around the club. Emery navigated a similarly sluggish start last season before results improved, offering some reassurance, but a positive result or even a single goal against Club Brugge, the Belgian league runners-up, would provide a welcome boost as they begin their Champions League campaign.